Chapter 56

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Chapter 56: Title

Soon, the news of the theft at the Prime Minister’s residence spread throughout the royal city in just one day. Someone was happily counting silver coins in a corner, already imagining Gu Yuanqing’s frustrated face, wanting to explode but holding it in.

In Chaoyang Hall,

"Prime Minister Gu, I heard this morning that the Prime Minister’s residence was robbed. Is this true?" teased Minister Zhang from the Ministry of Rites, unafraid of getting into trouble.

"Yes, this is a once-in-a-hundred-years event. I’ve heard that the guards at the Prime Minister’s residence are as strict as those at Prince Rong’s residence. Could it be just a rumor?"

At such a time, there were people standing by Gu Yuanqing, but naturally, there were also those on the opposing side. For example, the mocking expression on General Zhao Yue’s face showed his disdain. The arranged marriage that had started out promisingly had fallen apart due to a brief incident, causing discord between the two families. It did not matter much for a man like Gu Cheng, but for Zhao Le, a young woman, this incident certainly left a negative impact.

However, in terms of status, Zhao Yue could at most be considered a third-grade general, possessing far less power than Gu Yuanqing. He could only swallow his anger and keep quiet. Gu Yuanqing was the Minister of Justice, after all; his nephew Gu Bailong held a first-grade position at court, and his sister was the current imperial concubine. Zhao Yue was not someone he could afford to provoke.

Just as the crowd began to murmur, a cold sneer interrupted, "This is indeed the first theft at the Prime Minister’s residence. Look at how relaxed Minister Gu appears; it seems the thief did not take anything shameful."

Gu Yuanqing paid no mind to the discussions of the other officials; he only took note of this person.

"Theft is, especially in the homes of court officials like us, hard to avoid. It’s a pity that the thief did not know better than to provoke me, Gu Yuanqing. This matter cannot be easily overlooked," Gu Yuanqing replied, smiling, his eyes filled with sarcasm. "As for Liu Shangshu, I heard that he brought a male concubine home a few days ago, and his wife nearly raised the roof. If I guess correctly, that boy could be his son already."

This Liu Yu was the Minister of Justice of Dongyin, known for his cold demeanor and ruthless methods. He was known for being unpredictable and violent, managing the Tiangong Division where prisoners lived in hellish conditions. The mere mention of Tiangong Division struck fear into the hearts of many; parents often used the stories of it to scare their children.

It was no secret that Liu Yu favored men, but no one had ever heard of him bringing a male concubine home, especially considering he also had a fierce wife.

After Gu Yuanqing’s words, new discussions erupted in the hall. This discord between the two prominent officials had indeed given rise to much entertaining drama for the onlookers.

Liu Yu, slightly younger than Gu Yuanqing, appeared to be around thirty-five or thirty-six, handsome yet with a grim look on his face that contrasted with his appearance.

Before Liu Yu could speak, a light laugh came from the entrance. "You gentlemen are here so early; I have become the last one to arrive."

Lian Rong entered the hall dressed in a crimson robe, standing out among many people in blue court attire, giving the impression of being out of place. A matching ribbon held back her long green hair, and a smile radiated from her captivating face.

As everyone recognized her, the hall fell silent for a moment before returning to normal. It was often said that being married changed a person; in the past year and a half, Prince Rong had hardly attended court, yet today he surprisingly arrived early, appearing in a good mood.

At the same time, many people discreetly glanced at Gu Yuanqing, who occasionally chimed in with a comment, thinking to themselves that his second daughter truly had great skill.

Zhao Yue, a military officer, momentarily forgot about Lian Rong. After that incident at the Prime Minister’s residence, the female prince had come to propose marriage, easing him from much awkwardness. Gu Yuanqing appeared to be at a disadvantage but did not press Zhao Yue.

It was rare for Prince Rong to attend the morning court early; the emperor at the head table seemed taken aback but said nothing, listening as each department reported their matters.

"Your Majesty, recently our northern border has faced repeated turmoil, many innocent commoners have been harmed. I believe, given that we have not encountered such problems in recent years, it is likely the actions of instigators. This matter should not trouble Your Majesty, but since the incident with Liangzhou’s governor has just passed and there are currently no officials in charge, I must report this truthfully," the Defense Minister said as he stepped forward, bowing slightly.

The emperor pondered for a moment. "Indeed, we have not faced such a situation in years. When did it start?"

"Reporting to Your Majesty, it has been going on for about half a month."

"Your Majesty, I believe we cannot show leniency in this matter. The governor of Liangzhou must be appointed immediately, and we should send people to swiftly eliminate these troublemakers. According to the laws of Dongyin, it calls for the punishment of the nine clans," Gu Yuanqing added as he stood forward.

The emperor nodded, directing his gaze to the crimson-robed figure. "What does Prince Rong think?"

Lian Rong smiled slightly and respectfully replied, "Your Majesty, Minister Gu is correct. This situation could escalate; it must be resolved quickly to prevent future troubles."

The emperor regarded her and asked, "Do you have any suggestions?"

Lian Rong thought for a moment before saying, "They are just a group of rebels. Your Majesty could send people directly, bringing more soldiers; the sooner, the better."

"Does Prince Rong have any candidates in mind?"

"Let Yanger go. He is still young, and it’s good for him to gain some experience."

The emperor looked around the hall. "Do any of you have objections?"

"Reporting to Your Majesty, Prince Rong’s suggestion is excellent," everyone echoed in unison.

The emperor nodded. "Minister Gu, do you have any updates regarding the grain warehouse fire from a few days ago?"

Gu Yuanqing bent slightly. "I am still investigating. It has been said that a similar incident occurred in Xiliang, with losses exceeding ours by more than double. The emperor of Xiliang is furious, and many officials there have already been dismissed."

Upon hearing this, a hint of sarcasm flashed in the emperor’s eyes. Officials dismissed? In a realm where the nearby small states were at war often, he still had time to deal with this!

After morning court, as Lian Rong stepped out of the grand hall, Liu Yu’s men followed closely behind. Those who intended to get close to Prince Rong quickly moved away.

"Today seems unusual, Prince Rong actually attended morning court," Liu Yu said with half a joke.

Lian Rong glanced at him. "I thought Lord Liu would say something surprising. You are also requesting leave very often, and your little companion is quite impressive."

Liu Yu squinted his eyes. "I thought Prince Rong only focused on violence and making money, ignoring everything else."

Lian Rong looked at Gu Yuanqing, who was walking ahead, and chuckled softly. "To be honest, my crown princess has seen that charming young man beside Lord Liu."

Liu Yu laughed out loud. "Speaking of which, did you like the gifts I sent you, Prince Rong?"

Lian Rong touched the jade ring on his thumb and said slowly, "They are all in my woodshed; I haven’t had the chance to look at them yet. If you are unwilling, Lord Liu, you may go to my residence and take them back."

Liu Yu felt a bit put out. "Prince Rong is indeed wealthy and imposing."

"You flatter me."

As if recalling something, Liu Yu suddenly grabbed Lian Rong’s long sleeve. "Your crown princess must be Madam Dou’s daughter, right?"

"…" (How slow can this person be to react this way?)

Liu Yu’s previous irritation returned. "I couldn’t wrap my head around it for a while, so you must now call him father-in-law, right?"

Seeing that Lian Rong still ignored him, Liu Yu noticed other officials looking their way. His expression turned cold, and he shot a sharp glance at them, making them quickly retreat and attend to their own business.

"You know very well that I don’t get along with that old man."

Lian Rong took out a small fan and played with it in his hands. "What does it matter to me if you don’t get along with him? And stop calling him an old man as if you are still very young."

Liu Yu felt his pride hurt. Every time he spoke with Lian Rong, he lost half his life. He snorted dismissively. "I may not be young anymore, but you aren’t much better off, marrying a little girl who is the same age as your niece. How do you live with your conscience?"

Lian Rong smiled without anger. "I enjoy this kind of thing."

Liu Yu leaned in with a sly grin. "Is that girl very skilled in bed? But be careful; if you wear her out at such a young age, it won’t be worth it."

Lian Rong paused with his fan in hand. "What did you say?"

"Uh, forget I said anything." Liu Yu awkwardly waved his hand. "I was just making a comment about your crown princess, no need to blow it out of proportion."

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